Our Work
The African Communities Council Wellington (ACCW) is a registered not-for-profit society incorporated under the Incorporated Societies Act 1906. Our primary mission is to support African individuals and communities across Wellington.
Established in May 2011, we have come together to be the united voice that facilitates and supports collective development while encouraging each African community and individual to advance their culture, skills and business.
We acknowledge that each of our paths to Aotearoa are very diverse; some from refugee backgrounds, skilled immigrants, family reunions and international students. What we have in common, however, is our rich cultural diversity, skills and innovation as well as a culture of hard work.
Why We Exist
The rationale for establishing ACCW was a recognition that there was a need to work collectively the issues and opportunities we have in common while promoting and integrating African culture and heritage in New Zealand as well as increasing community participation.
We appreciate and support each and everyone in our community to access better opportunities, enjoy the quality of life that New Zealand offers us and continue to be productive members of the community.
Our Vision
- Represent the interests of diverse African communities in Wellington
- Promote harmonious relations among the diverse African communities in Wellington
Our Mission
- Engage in constructive dialogue among ethnic communities and government
- Advocate on behalf of the African community in Wellington on matters of social, economic, political and cultural significance and wellbeing
- Provide a forum for information dissemination and exchange for Wellington’s African communities
- Promote community cohesion through community arts, cultural events and mother tongue programmes
Our Values
- Advocate for the African community in Wellington on matters of social, economic, political and cultural significance and wellbeing
- Promote research into systemic issues facing Wellington’s African communities
Goals and Values
Interested in helping out?
There are many ways that you can support our work
Annual General Meeting (AGM)
ACCW has an annual general meeting which is open to all members and communities and friends of Africa. The timing of the AGM is usually in October each year. An election AGM holds every two years to align with term limits of the Board and Subcommittee. Notice of the AGM is shared via email and social media platforms one month before the AGM. Documents circulated ahead of the AGM Minutes, Constitution Reviews (if any) and Financial Report. All questions are to be sent to info@africancommunity.org.nz before the AGM.
Our Communities
Our community groups are ever-growing. If we missed your community from the list or you would like your community to be included in the council, do get in touch via info@africancommity.org.nz.
Our Supporters
Over the years, we have received an immeasurable support from various organisations and friends of Africa. Every bit of support goes a long way in providing sustainable growth and delivery of essential workshops, trainings, awareness campaigns, interventions to support ACCW vision, mission and values.
Notable programmes by ACCW have promoted social cohesion and built more unity among the community including increasing participation and rapid human capital development. Some memorable moments are the regular Africa Day celebrations support from City Councils and New Zealand Police and The Ubuntu Learning Hub project from the Ministry of Education.
If you are interested in becoming a sponsor or collaborate for ACCW events, please contact us for more information at info@africancommunity.org.nz.
Annual Reports
ACCW has an annual general meeting which is open to all members and communities and friends of Africa. The timing of the AGM is usually in October each year. An election AGM holds every two years to align with term limits of the Board and Subcommittee. Notice of the AGM is shared via email and social media platforms one month before the AGM. Documents circulated ahead of the AGM Minutes, Constitution Reviews (if any) and Financial Report. All questions are to be sent to info@africancommunity.org.nz before the AGM.
Complain Process
It is not uncommon for communities to have dispute in opinions including unethical, dishonest or illegal behaviour, harassment (sexual or otherwise), bullying, misconduct, health and safety risks, unlawful discrimination, offensive language or grievous harm. it is important to note that ACCW Board does not investigate rumours, petty gossips, claims without evidence or take sides in community disputes. Below is the formal process for lodging any complaints relating to the ACCW members and governance.
- Gather evidence of complaint
- Submit complaint along with evidence to secretary@africancommunity.org.nz
- ACCW Board deliberates on the merit of the case and makes a decision or appoints independent arbitrator, where necessary
- Parties notified of the outcome of the complaint and implications
Links